What is a Generic Drug?
A generic drug is a copy of the brand-name drug with the same dosage, safety, strength, quality, consumption method, performance, and intended use. Before generics become available on the market, the generic company must prove it has the same active ingredients as the brand-name drug and works in the same way and in the same amount of time in the body.
The only differences between generics and their brand-name counterparts is that generics are less expensive and may look slightly different (eg. different shape or color), as trademarks laws prevent a generic from looking exactly like the brand-name drug.
Generics are less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have to invest large sums of money to develop a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name and sell it at a substantial discount.
Calcort (Deflazacort)
Prescription Required
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Product Details
Description
Calcort, also known as Deflazacort, is a corticosteroid medication used to reduce inflammation. It works by suppressing the immune system's response, thereby decreasing inflammation and associated symptoms. Classified as a glucocorticoid, Calcort may help treat a range of conditions, including Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), certain autoimmune diseases, and some types of arthritis.
Fact Table
Formula
C25H31NO6
License
US FDA
Bioavailability
40-90% (oral)
Legal status
Prescription only (Rx)
Chemical Name
(11ß,16ß)-21-(acetyloxy)-11-hydroxy-2'-methyl-5'H-pregna-1,4-dieno[17,16-d]oxazole-3,20-dione
Elimination half-life
1.1-1.9 hours
Dosage (Strength)
6 mg, 30 mg tablets
Pregnancy
Consult a doctor
Brands
Calcort, Emflaza, Deflanzo
Protein binding
40%
PubChem CID
656657
MedlinePlus
a617046
ChEBI
31472
ATC code
H02AB13
DrugBank
DB01234
KEGG
D03665
Routes of administration
Oral
Directions
Calcort is taken orally with or without food. The medication's typical dose varies based on the condition being treated. Swallow the tablets whole; do not crush them. It's important to take this medicine as instructed by a healthcare provider. When discontinuing the medication, it may be necessary to wean off gradually to avoid withdrawal symptoms.
Ingredients
The active ingredient in Calcort is Deflazacort.
Contraindications
Avoid taking or using this medication if any of the following apply:
- Known hypersensitivity or allergy to Deflazacort or any component of its formulation.
- Active, untreated infections, including fungal, tuberculosis, or other bacterial and viral infections.
- Administration of live or live-attenuated vaccines due to potential immunosuppression.
Cautions
- Before starting treatment with Calcort, be sure to inform your healthcare provider about the following:
- Any medical conditions you currently have
- Any allergies
- All medications you are currently taking
- Whether you are pregnant or breastfeeding
- To minimize side effects, you should be started on the lowest effective dose. Your doctor will assess whether taking the medication less frequently, like every other day, might be appropriate for you based on your condition.
- Frequent check-ups are important to adjust the medication as needed and monitor any side effects.
- Prolonged use of Calcort may suppress your adrenal glands, which might make it necessary to adjust your dose if you become ill or need surgery. This effect can persist even after stopping the medication.
- If you need to stop taking Calcort after long-term use, it’s important to do so gradually to avoid withdrawal symptoms or worsening of your underlying condition.
- Taking Calcort may weaken your immune system, making you more susceptible to infections. Symptoms of infection might not be typical and can become serious quickly.
- If you haven’t had chickenpox or measles or haven’t been vaccinated, avoid close contact with people who have these infections. If exposed, seek medical advice immediately.
- If you experience any vision changes like blurred vision while on Calcort, see an eye doctor for evaluation.
- If you are undergoing dental procedures, there might be an increased risk of jaw problems. Discuss with your dentist that you are taking Calcort.
- You may experience severe pains in your bones, joints, or muscles. If this happens, talk to your doctor about possibly stopping Calcort.
- Long-term use can lead to unusual fractures of the thigh bone with little or no trauma. Contact your doctor if you experience thigh or groin pain.
- Live vaccines are not recommended due to your weakened immune response.
- If you have conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, or a history of stomach ulcers, using Calcort could make managing these conditions more difficult.
- Steroids can cause mood swings, including severe depression. Tell your healthcare provider if you notice mood changes.
Side Effects
Calcort may lead to side effects such as indigestion, heartburn, stomach pain, or a feeling of fullness and bloating. Some people might notice an increase in appetite and weight gain, particularly around the face, or experience unusual hair growth. If you have diabetes, you might see an increase in thirst and need to urinate more often.
Urgent medical attention may be needed if you experience severe side effects like swelling in the face or throat, difficulty breathing, or signs of a severe allergic reaction such as hives. Symptoms like black tarry stools or bloody vomit can indicate a stomach ulcer. Changes in mood, including depression or thoughts of suicide, are serious and require immediate consultation with a healthcare provider. If you notice any symptoms of serious infections, severe skin reactions, or sudden severe abdominal pain, contact your doctor right away.
References
- Calcort (Deflazacort) Package Leaflet. Hertford, UK: Neon Healthcare Ltd.; 2023.
- Calcort (Deflazacort) Summary of Product Characteristics. Hertford, UK: Neon Healthcare Ltd.; 2023.
IMPORTANT NOTE: The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment.Product Code : 9737
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